Carpooling Gone Sour? Workers Complain—Yet Can’t Quit

In recent years, ride-sharing services have increasingly drawn user complaints for "becoming more like ride-hailing platforms": professional drivers routinely snatching ride requests has become the norm, while genuinely detour-free private car owners are dwindling. Passengers frequently encounter issues such as forced ride-sharing, unnecessary detours, and poor in-car conditions. Despite the declining experience, many cost-conscious commuters continue using these services due to their price advantage, trapped in a frustrating cycle of complaining while still placing orders.